LOCATION: Milwaukee,
WI
BANDS: Omega Watts, Galactic
When you have no expectations, you can't be disappointed. When something is good, it's great because you didn't anticipate it, and when it's not, you can't be that upset, because you had no idea what it would be like. More rewarding is the surprise than one that you know is coming and it's always better to just be hit than to wait for the punch. The concept is true in all areas of life, from a night out with your crew to the new release at Blockbuster. Recently, my "concert buddy" Meg and I saw a show in Milwaukee that we didn't know too much about. It was one of the best shows I have seen in awhile.
Omega Watts and Galactic recently were at a smaller venue in Milwaukee. I had never heard of Galactic before, but knew Omega from dappling in different music. I love hip hop and thought I'd check it out. I had the night off and it was only $25. Also, Charlie 2NA from Jurassic 5 was going to be there. It was worth it even if I didn't know this band. Live music is live music.
We got there early since we were going to see the opening band. The venue was small and intimate, which was awesome for someone who likes to be right where the action is. Omega Watts came out and greeted the crowd like he would his friends. He described hip hop as being a community and that's exactly the feel you got through his entire show. He was joined onstage by fellow emcee Othello. The way they played off each other was something worth seeing. Othello's rhyming style was a faster tempo to Omegas more laid back manner. They both had great style and rhythm and really worked the stage. Not only did their performance articulate a positive message, of community and vision and reaching your goals, but it was extremely entertaining as well.
During the set change between shows I learned I was not going to see another hip hop group. Galactic is what one could describe as a "jam band" I suppose. There was a drummer, saxophone, guitars, harmonica, keyboard, the whole nine yards. It was more jam band meets funk meets rock with a lot of cool lights. They were good, and had a great energy. They were hardcore, and then they'd slow it down and be chill. Then, to my surprise, out came Charlie 2NA and his little brother. His voice is huge, but I never expected him to be so big. He came out and did a few songs, one new and the well-known "What's Golden" from the J5 crew. He was great to see live. You could see how much he was enjoying just being there in front of the crowd by his smile. It was so genuine. It's always great seeing someone love what they do so much.
Charlie 2NA and his bro did two songs and then let Galactic do their thing for awhile. After a bit they came back, grooved some more, and went back stage. They did this three or four times, which gave the show great balance. When the show was about over the guy next to me told me Galactic always did a Led Zeppelin cover for their final song. Sure enough, “Kashmir” started to ring through the speakers. Not long into it, out came all of the other performers. Omega, Othello, Charlie 2NA, and his bro all rhymed one last verse each to the background of Galactic's rendition of an old favorite. It was one of the best encores I've ever seen.
Whoever knows me won't be surprised that I stuck around to meet the band. I just always have the desire to tell performers how much I loved their show and dig their music. After a few minutes Omega and Othello were out and they were so sweet. They appreciated their fans for sure. Charlie 2NA and his bro were great too. We chatted and posed for pictures. We said our praises and they gave their thanks. It was the perfect end to an amazing show.
By: Katie Verneezie - Contributing Writer
